Shirley Rae Davenport Johnson, 81, passed away suddenly on April 26, 2025, with her eternal companion, Scott Nebeker Johnson, by her side. She was born on April 11, 1944, to John Revell Davenport and Barbara Erickson Davenport. She was the second of six children.
Shirley was raised in Ogden, Utah. She treasured her family memories with her parents and siblings while camping, fishing, hunting, and non-stop laughter. During her education, she was a choir member and cheerleader and graduated from Bonneville High School in 1962.
Shirley met the love of her life, Scott, while in Bear Lake at a family reunion. They dated throughout high school and were married shortly after graduation on June 8, 1962. Their marriage was later solemnized in the Logan Temple in March of 2020.
Scott and Shirley lived in Laketown while Scott continued working on his family ranch. One of Scott and Shirley’s early passions was meeting new friends while operating the Johnson Lakeshore (the current Rendezvous Beach State Park).
Early in their marriage, they suffered the loss of two premature infants, Leslie, and later James. Because they did not have any children during the Vietnam War, Scott was drafted and left for service on February 8, 1966. Shirley moved back to Ogden with her parents and worked at the IRS. During Scott’s service, Scott was injured while jumping from a helicopter and was then stationed in Okinawa. Shirley had the opportunity to join him in Okinawa. They loved the Okinawan people and memories. During that time, they suffered the loss of premature twin girls. Shirley returned home shortly before Scott completed his military service.
Shirley suffered another premature infant loss before being blessed with her miracle babies, Richard Scott and Michelle Rae.
Shirley loved dressing in nice clothes, jewelry, and wearing lipstick (she had her lipstick on the day before she passed while riding in the truck with Scott).
Shirley had many callings in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints which included Scouts, Primary, Young Women, and Relief Society. Shirley provided dedicated service to her community while teaching 4-H classes and was one of the first EMTs on the Laketown Ambulance. She served thousands of delicious meals to the students in the Rich County School District while employed as a lunch lady and manager.
Shirley and Scott valued the friendships they made while owning a lot at Emerald Beach on the east side of Bear Lake. The past thirty-seven years was enjoyed while building the family cabins and relishing fond memories with family and friends.
Shirley was a firecracker and spoke her opinion. She was the first to offer food, provide rides for grandkids, and loved to have fun! She had a zest for life, witty personality, and enthusiastic sense of humor. She was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. Her children and grandchildren have the best memories of her delicious meals, funny comments, support at activities, spunky personality, crazy cats, moo moo dresses, infectious laugh, and unwavering strength and love.
We find solace knowing that mom’s last days were well-spent. We had a wonderful week full of laughter and peace. She has been reunited in heaven with her beloved children (who went too soon before her) along with her parents and siblings.
Shirley is survived by her husband, Scott Nebeker Johnson, her children Rick Johnson (Denise), Michelle Peterson (Justin), five grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister, Barbara, and brother, Rod.
As per Shirley’s wishes, there will only be a viewing held in the Laketown LDS church (115 S 100 E) on Friday, May 2, 2025, 11:00-12:45 with interment following at the Laketown cemetery.
No comments:
Post a Comment